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Later, Lyra realized the naivety of her dream. After all, people had been at war at all times, and no amount of power, even the fairest, could end it. The propensity to kill is inherent in human nature itself. All living creatures that dwell and suffer in the celestial world live by similar laws… But it was then, sitting on the ashes, that Lyra chose her path.

She got it into her head that she had nothing to lose. «Of course! – said to herself – All her kin are dead, including even her third cousins. The village burned down, with only four more or less intact structures left, and a hundred ragamuffins… The almshouses have been looted and most of the dervishes are taking bribes. I have no one to support me, and there are only holes in my pockets. It is unlikely I will find a rich fiance, my appearance is normal – but also not the most beautiful. Six friends are as poor as I am. – The girl wiped away her tears and snot, „Two ways,“ she continued. – To become a despised tramp, or to fight for my dream. I choose the second!» Maybe if a wise counselor had been around, the girl would have realized that there were actually more ways. But there was no wise counselor, and the decision was made. Laira said goodbye to Childhood, and set out on a path that brought her much unbearable suffering. But which led to power over the Empire.